Google Merchant Center is removing 4 attribution models from conversion tracking
First-click, linear, time-decay, and position-based options will no longer be available.
Google Merchant Center will remove the ability to select four rules-based attribution models when setting up the conversion source in 2024. The models being removed are:
- First-click.
- Linear.
- Time decay.
- Position-based.
Starting in April 2024, any conversion sources still using these models will be switched to data-driven attribution.
Marketers not wanting conversions that use data-driven attribution will be able to use the last-click model instead.
Why we care. This change will affect how marketers analyze and attribute conversions, crucial for identifying effective channels, touchpoints and strategies, enabling informed decision-making and resource allocation.
Why now? Google announced this change after confirming it was retiring these attribution models for all properties in Google Ads and Google Analytics in October 2023. A spokesperson explained that adoption rates were “increasingly low” with “fewer than 3% of conversions in Google Ads using these models.” They added:
- “Switching to the data-driven attribution model typically results in a 6% increase in conversions for advertisers.”
Deep dive. Read Google’s Select Attribution Settings documentation for more information on how to choose the reporting attribution model and conversion window for your property.
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